Below is the full text of OAC 901:12-1-01, a section of the Euthanasia chapter from the Ohio Livestock Care Standards Board section of the OAC.
Chapter 901:12-1 Euthanasia
901:12-1-01 Definitions and general considerations.
(A) Euthanasia is the causing of humane death, through the rapid loss of consciousness followed by cardiac and respiratory arrest and the ultimate loss of brain function.
(B) “Humane death” is death that results through utilization of the methods established by this chapter.
(C) The only acceptable methods of euthanasia are those listed in this chapter and are to be used as the exclusive means of euthanasia, except in slaughter facilities already governed by federal or state law, or ritual slaughter as described in Chapter 945. of the Revised Code.
(D) Euthanasia for animals must be performed when the likelihood for recovery is poor and the condition cannot be effectively relieved by best species management and medically appropriate procedures.
(E) Occurrence of death will be confirmed by the absence of:
(1) Breathing for five minutes;
(2) A heart beat for five minutes; and
(3) A corneal reflex (a blink reflex to touching of the eye.)
(F) If death does not occur, the same method must be repeated or another approved method of euthanasia must be immediately performed.
(G) Disposal of animals after confirmation of death must be performed in accordance with section 941.14 of the Revised Code.
For unusual conditions which require euthanasia of populations, such as wide spread disease eradication and exigent circumstances , the director may authorize alternate methods pursuant to section 941.11 of the Revised Code. The alternate methods must minimize animal pain and suffering to the extent reasonably possible while considering the threat to human health and safety.
(I) Nothing in the rules adopted in division 901:12 of the Administrative Code shall be construed to prevent a licensed veterinarian, or other person acting under the veterinarian’s supervision, from meeting the standards set forth in Chapter 4741. of the Revised Code or rules promulgated thereunder.
(J) No person shall bear any liability under this chapter for using a non-approved method of euthanasia to prevent a threat to public safety from an animal regulated under this chapter.
Five Year Review (FYR) Dates: 05/11/2017 and 05/11/2022
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 904.03
Rule Amplifies: 904.03 , 904.04
Prior Effective Dates: 1/20/2011
Prior History: (Effective: 03/28/2013
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 01/20/2016
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 904.03
Rule Amplifies: 904.03 , 904.04
Prior Effective Dates: 01/20/2011)